Gastrointestinal
Relief Starts with the Right Support
Pharmaconic partners with gastroenterologists to provide targeted care for patients with IBD, IBS, and other digestive conditions. From biologics to bowel prep, we manage complex medications with precision—while offering nutritional supplements, personalized guidance, and support for side effect management. Our team helps patients understand their treatment, adjust their diet, and take control of their digestive health with confidence.
- Digestive Focus
- Clinical Coordination
- Whole-Patient Care
Gastrointestinal
Anal Fissure
An anal fissure is a cut or tear in the lining of your anal canal. Trauma is usually the cause of anal fissures, especially when straining to pass hard stools. Dehydration can also contribute to the development of anal fissures. They can occur suddenly or gradually. Likewise, the healing process can be quick or slow depending on various factors, such as how deep the tear is. Anal fissures are very common in infants and pregnant women.
Symptoms of Anal Fissures Include:
- Sharp pain when pooping
- Burning or itching with pooping
- Bright red blood in your poop
- Itching or irritation around the anus
Treatments
Prescription Treatment Options
- Nitroglycerin ointment 0.2%
→ Relaxes the anal sphincter, increases blood flow, helps healing
→ Headaches are one common side effect - Diltiazem 2% or Nifedipine 0.2% with or without lidocaine ointment
→ Alternative to nitroglycerin with fewer side effects
OTC Options
- Stool softeners (Docusate sodium)
→ Prevent straining and hard stools - Fiber supplements (Psyllium, Methylcellulose)
→ Promote softer, more regular bowel movements - Sitz baths (warm water soak)
→ Soak 10–20 minutes several times daily to soothe the area and promote healing - Topical anesthetics (Lidocaine cream)
→ Relieve pain temporarily - Hydration & diet
→ Drink plenty of water, eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
Gastrointestinal
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids are similar to varicose (enlarged, twisted) veins. Hemorrhoids can develop inside the rectum, called internal hemorrhoids. They also can develop under the skin around the anus, called external hemorrhoids.
Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet
- Itching, irritation, or soreness around the anus
- A painful lump or swelling near the anus
- Discomfort or pain when sitting or during bowel movements
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the rectum
Treatments
Topical Prescription Medications
- Hydrocortisone 2.5%
→ Reduces inflammation and itching - Lidocaine 5%
→ Numbs the area, relieves pain and burning - Hydrocortisone + Lidocaine
→ Dual relief of pain and inflammation - Pramoxine + Hydrocortisone
→ Soothes itching, burning, inflammation - Nifedipine or Diltiazem
→ Used for severe internal hemorrhoids
Rectal Suppositories
- Hydrocortisone suppository
→ Reduces swelling, itching, and irritation - Hydrocortisone + Zinc oxide
→ Anti-inflammatory + skin protectant
OTC Options
Warm sitz baths (10–15 minutes several times a day)
Topical creams/ointments with:
- Hydrocortisone
- Witch hazel
- Lidocaine for pain relief
- Cold packs to reduce swelling
- Stool softeners (Docusate sodium)
- Fiber supplements (Psyllium) to prevent straining
- Drink plenty of water and eat high-fiber foods
